Dream big! This is what 20 SaySo youth, ages 17-21 were instructed, as they gathered for a two-part retreat called TEAM-UP (Teens Engaging in Aspiring Mentorships & Uplifting Partnerships). During these retreats, SaySo high schoolers and post-secondary students created a plan for their career, education, and business goals.
At the end of the retreat, they were given the chance to present their plans based on the style of the business-themed reality series Shark Tank. They presented to their peers, case workers, SaySo mentors, and community members. Business leaders in the community served as commentators who gave advice and feedback to SaySo youth about their proposals and presentations.
The audience heard pitches for various businesses such as a mobile nail salon, daycare center, mobile beauty bar, candle-making company, e-commerce, and many more. Other students chose to present their educational or career aspirations, detailing the pathways to become an engineer, forensic scientist, singer, fashion designer, comic book author, and so much more.
We were inspired to see so many young people dream big and take proactive steps toward achieving their dreams. To learn more about the amazing work of SaySo, click here.
Did you know?
On average, students in foster care tend to have worse academic performance and more behavior problems than other students. Students in foster care are more likely to be:
- Below grade level
- Retained
- Suspended or expelled
- Receiving special education services
Between 1/3 and 2/3 of current or former foster students end up dropping out of school before earning their high school diploma.
